A scratching post is a must if you have a cat at home. It is essential for healthy and well-adjusted felines. It provides a great outlet for their urge to scratch so their claws stay sharp. It is also a good deterrent to keep the cat from destroying your furniture, carpets, and curtains. In this article, we will take a look at a list of the best cat scratching posts so you can compare and choose the best products for your furry babies.
Top 5 Scratching Posts for Cats
Here are the best cat scratching post to file nails:
1. PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge
Rating: 5 stars
- It has been judged as the Hauspanther Award winner for the best cat lounge in the world.
- It is made from non-toxic materials, including cornstarch glue and environmentally friendly cardboard.
- It features a two-level, moon-shaped design and an angled structure with a selection of scratching areas, plus plenty of room for up to four big cats.
- It can be used as a scratchboard, playroom, and lounge for cats.
- Product size: 39 x 11 x 14.3 inches; reversible
2. SmartCat Pioneer Pet Ultimate Scratching Post
Rating: 5 stars
- It has a wide, sturdy, durable, and heavy square base that prevents wobbling.
- It is easy and quick to install and includes two screws.
- It is made of sisal fiber and is available in beige and grey to go well with your furniture and home decor.
- It features a vertical design and is ideal for small, medium, and large cats.
- Product size: 16 x 16 x 32 inches.
3. Amazon Basics Cat Scratching Post
Rating: 5 stars
- It features a 2-in-1 stylish and interactive play design that satisfies a cat’s urge to climb and scratch.
- It has scratchable pillars made of natural, durable jute rope and has a rough texture that contributes to healthy nails.
- It has an elevated platform with a plush bed that has a neutral carpet ideal for lounging and sleeping, along with interchangeable toys.
- It does not use any chemicals or adhesives to ensure premium quality, and is ideal for small apartments.
- Product size: 19.3 x 19.3 x 25.6 inches
4. 4CLAWS Wall Mounted Scratching Post
Rating: 4 stars
- It is wall-mountable and 100%-guaranteed unmovable.
- It does not take up much floor room; you can mount it at any height you want.
- It comes in light beige, is durable, and comes with mounting screws that are easy to install.
- It features eco-friendly materials like sisal.
- Product size: 18 x 3.8 x 2.8 inches
5. Cat Scratcher Cardboard Cat Scratcher Pad 3-in-1 Lounge Bed
Rating: 4 stars
- It features three different designs with three different sizes: small pad for kittens three months old and above, middle pad for young cats 1.5 years old and above, and a large pad for cats that are five years old and above.
- It is perfect for large cats and multicat households.
- It has an attractive design with neutral colors that blend nicely with your home decor.
- It features durable 100% recycled corrugated cardboard.
- Product size: 24 x 10.63 x 10.23 inches
Other Information about Cat Scratching Posts
If you’re on the lookout for the best scratching post to file nails, you must have a good understanding of its benefits and what features to look for.
Benefits of a Scratching Post
- It promotes nail health since it removes old sheaths and uncovers new ones while keeping nails well-trimmed.
- It allows cats to leave their scent as their way of claiming territory and as a warning for other cats to keep off.
- It keeps cats’ muscles lithe and in good shape since it stretches their bodies. Take, for instance, the 4CLAWS Wall Mounted Scratching Post that allows cats to stretch their bodies well.
- It releases feel good hormones, dispels stress, and blows off steam.
- It diverts a cat’s instinct to scratch on furniture.
- It allows kittens to burn off excess energy and makes the transition to a new home less stressful.
- It builds rapport and interaction among cats if you have a multi-cat household. The Cat Scratcher Cardboard Cat Scratcher Pad 3 in 1 Lounge Bed is perfect if you have two or more cats in your home.
How to Get Your Cat to Use the Scratching Post:
1. Start teaching your cat to use a scratching post while she is still a kitten.
The younger your cat is, the easier it will be for her to get used to a scratching post. Get your cat’s attention by scratching your fingers along the post and allowing her to play with toys near or on the post.
2. Choose the right scratching post with the right materials.
You may have to buy at least two or more posts that feature various materials to discover your pet’s preferences. Some cats like sisal-wrapped poles, while others prefer cardboard or carpet.
3. See to it that each cat has its own post.
Cats scratch to leave their scent and mark territory, so if you have two or more cats but only one post, only one may use it.
4. Encourage your cat to use her post with the use of Feliscratch and Feliway Diffuser.
FeliScratch by Feliway encourages cats to scratch on a specific location, such as their scratching post. You may also use the Feliway Classic Diffuser for a more successful training of your cat.
How to Choose the Right Scratching Post
1. Choose the right size for your cat.
Cats prefer a scratching post that is big and tall enough for them to have a good stretch. If a post is too small or uncomfortable, they may not like it and refuse to use it.
2. Invest in a scratching post that is stable and durable.
A good scratching post should be sturdy so that your cat cannot pull it over easily. It should have a stable base that is heavy or able to be mounted on a wall firmly. Cats favor a scratching post that won’t topple or wobble easily so they can really enjoy their scratching spree.
3. The post should be accessible for your cat.
Try to position the scratching post in areas where your cat usually spends time or hangs out. It should also be easy to set up and use. If she ignores the post, try to place treats on it or rub some catnip on it. Hang a toy mouse to catch your cat’s attention and to convince her to come near and investigate.
If your cat is inappropriately scratching on furniture, try to place the scratching post in front of it. This will make your cat choose between the couch or the scratching post.
4. You should see to it that the post is made of materials like sisal, rope, or cardboard.
Cats do not care if they have filed nails, but what they do enjoy is the feeling of the scratching post material against their paws. Most cats prefer materials like sisal, rope, or cardboard. Some cats also like carpet-covered scratching posts.
Image: istockphoto.com / IcemanJ